World-first stalking clinic opens in London

The world's first National Stalking Clinic (NSC) has opened in London today (December 8th), providing services for people who have been caught stalking.

Offenders will be referred by the NHS, courts, police and probation service and will undergo assessment, treatment and rehabilitation.

Experts believe that proper assessment and treatment could help to prevent re-offending and reduces the numbers of rapes, sexual assaults and murders committed by stalkers.

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Consultant forensic psychiatrist Dr Frank Farnham, who is one of the founders of the clinic, said that treatment could save lives.

'There is great need for a coordinated national service that can provide specialist advice and treatment,' he claimed.

Experts in Melbourne - leaders in the assessment and treatment of stalkers - are providing the NSC with invaluable input.

Dr Rachel MacKenzie, a senior forensic psychologist in Melbourne, said that the problem is a global one.

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Commenting on the new clinic, she said: 'This is a previously absent resource which will reduce harm to victims, both current and future, and support clinicians and professionals working with stalkers and stalking situations across the UK.'

News of the clinic was welcomed by the charity Network for Surviving Stalking.

Chief executive Alexis Bowater described the move as 'groundbreaking', adding that the treatment and rehabilitation of stalkers is 'vital if we are to stop lives being lost to stalking'.

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